KYIV: Ukraine’s air force received a major boost with the arrival of Mirage 2000-5 jets from France and F-16s from the Netherlands.
French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu confirmed that Ukrainian pilots, trained in France for months, flew the Mirage jets.
French President Emmanuel Macron had pledged to deliver the Mirage jets to Ukraine last summer.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov expressed gratitude, saying these aircraft would strengthen defense and counter Russian aggression.
Enhanced Air Defense
Umerov welcomed the first French Mirage 2000-5 jets and Dutch F-16s, emphasizing their importance in Ukraine’s military operations.
He stated the new fighters would soon begin combat missions to protect Ukraine’s skies and forces.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Macron for his support and commitment to Ukraine’s defense.
“France’s president keeps his word, and we appreciate it,” Zelensky said in a post on X.
Countering Russian Threats
The new fighter jets will improve Ukraine’s ability to engage enemy aircraft, attack ground targets, and intercept Russian missiles.
Russia has increased missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, overwhelming Ukraine’s air defense systems.
A recent Russian missile attack on a residential building killed at least 14 people, Ukrainian emergency services reported.
Ukraine’s air force previously stated an F-16 pilot intercepted six Russian missiles in one night.
Mirages and F-16s
Military aviation analyst Peter Layton suggested the Mirage jets would be most effective in an air defense role.
This strategy would allow Ukraine to use F-16s for offensive operations and other missions.
Both aircraft models will help Ukraine enhance its air superiority against Russian forces.
Ukraine continues strengthening its military capabilities with Western support and advanced weaponry.
